Delhi to Conduct Five Cloud-Seeding Trials with IIT-Kanpur’s Expertise

In a decisive step towards mitigating air pollution, the Delhi Cabinet has approved a ₹3.21 crore project to conduct five cloud-seeding trials across the National Capital Region (NCR). The initiative, led by the Delhi Environment Department in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, seeks to explore artificial rainmaking as a contingency solution during periods of severe air pollution.

Why in News?

On May 8, 2025, the Delhi Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, greenlit a pilot project involving five cloud-seeding experiments in NCR. The first trial is expected to take place by June 2025, following mandatory approvals from 13 inter-ministerial and inter-agency bodies.

Key Details

  • Total Budget: ₹3.21 crore
  • ₹2.75 crore for five trials
  • ₹66 lakh as one-time setup cost (aircraft calibration, chemical storage, logistics)
  • Implementing Agency: IIT Kanpur
  • Target Area: 100 sq km on the outskirts of Delhi
  • Trial Timeline: First trial expected by end of May or June 2025
  • Monitoring: AI-based surveillance and 24×7 monitoring at pollution hotspots

Objectives of the Cloud-Seeding Project

  • Induce artificial rainfall to reduce air pollution
  • Enhance precipitation in the region
  • Evaluate the feasibility and environmental impact of cloud seeding
  • Serve as a backup strategy during pollution emergencies

Required Clearances (13 in total)

  • Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
  • Ministry of Defence
  • Ministry of Home Affairs
  • Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
  • Airports Authority of India (AAI)

Background

  • Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique where chemicals like silver iodide or sodium chloride are dispersed into clouds to enhance rainfall.
  • It has been explored globally but remains controversial due to uncertain long-term effects and cost-effectiveness.

Significance

  • Represents Delhi’s technological push to fight environmental crises
  • Could set a precedent for other polluted metros
  • Encourages interdisciplinary research between environmental science and technology
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Delhi to Conduct Five Cloud-Seeding Trials with IIT-Kanpur’s Expertise
Project Name Cloud-Seeding Trials in NCR
Approved By Delhi Cabinet
Total Cost ₹3.21 crore
Implementing Agency IIT Kanpur
Area of First Trial 100 sq km, Delhi periphery
Trial Count 5
Timeline May–June 2025
Monitoring AI-based surveillance at pollution hotspots
Key Objective Reduce air pollution via induced rainfall

Shivam

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